Zinc Oxide: Historical Uses and Modern Benefits

Originally published in Dermascope Magazine: February 2016. © Scientific advances in skin care production and new nano-sized zinc oxides have allowed this natural-skin healer and sun protector to show up in a plethora of skin care products that far outshine the goopy sunscreens of yesteryear. Zinc is a naturally-occurring metallic element similar to magnesium or iron. Like iron and magnesium, zinc exists in the building blocks of the body and skin and is necessary for the maintenance of health and balance. It also contributes to the health of the immune system and maintenance of enzyme systems and cells. It is essential for protein synthesis, collagen formation, and helps skin heal. Zinc and one of its various compounds, zinc oxide, have been used in medicinal and industrial applications for centuries. Counter to common belief, zinc oxide is not a naturally-occurring element, but rather a result of chemically-heated zinc ore. The ore is processed with oxygen molecules until the substance is vaporized, condensed, and finally appears as a fine, white, crystallized powder. Only in this oxidized form can it be combined with base creams and other formulations to create skin care products used today. History As early as the first century C.E., Greek physician, pharmacologist, and botanist, Dioscorides, described the oxidation process of zinc in his writing, “De Materia Medica.” Although it is unclear when the medicinal benefits of zinc compounds were discovered for the first time, the oldest and closest reference was found in an ancient Indian medical text, “The Charaka Samhita,” which dates from 500 B.C.E. The text describes a healing salve called “pushpanjan,” which was used to treat the eyes and open wounds. It was not until the 1940s that zinc-based creams and ointments were available to the average consumer. Thirty years later, zinc lotions were used mainly to relieve symptoms of poison ivy, dandruff, and skin rashes. By the 1980s, new scientific studies on sun damage and skin health would change how this versatile compound was used. Uses and Benefits Zinc oxide as a compound is not water soluble, therefore, it cannot be applied topically in its pure form; it usually needs some form of carrier agent, like foundation, sunscreen, or moisturizer. As a topical ointment, zinc has been proven to treat a multitude of rashes, speed wound healing, and aid in tissue growth. Current research has also indicated it can help in the treatment and prevention of…

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Top Marketing Techniques for Spas

This article was first published in print for Dermascope Magazine, May 2015: (© 2015) Top Marketing Techniques for Spas Businesses are as individual as people. Each business location and owner has its own idiosyncrasies and methods – one spa’s success can be another spa’s failure. While there may not be a true top technique for spa marketing, common themes do come into play: research, relationship building, and taking advantage of free online tools. You have decided to take the plunge and open your own business – your dream spa. Or perhaps you have already spent blood, sweat, and tears getting that dream spa opened and ready for business – the massage tables are prepped, the facial rooms are stocked, and the candles are lit. The next question is, how do you let potential clients know you exist and get them in the door? Interviews were conducted with several spa owners and managers, asking what marketing techniques work best for them and what advice they would offer to help a spa business grow. Do Your Research It is easy to get excited and make choices about tangibles like interior decorations, towel quality, and hiring the right personnel. But equally important decisions can lie in the intangibles like product patents, workforce turnover, customer lists, and marketplace position. Have a Solid Business and Marketing Plan Assuming one has a solid business plan in place, marketing should be a key piece of that plan. Very few businesses can simply open their doors and expect the customers to come walking in without any form of marketing or advertising. Take into consideration the full cost of operating your spa business and include marketing and advertising in that budget. A little number crunching and comparison shopping before the budget is spent will go a long way toward helping a spa stay afloat and get noticed. When Amra Lear, L.E., L.M.T. opened her spa in Provo, Utah in 2005, she learned the hard way to be selective. “I accepted every marketing offer that came in and completely blew my budget,” she explained. “I spent way too much in marketing, leaving no reserve funds for costs or expansion and eventually lost the business.” While it would ideally be in place before you even open your doors, an effective marketing plan can make all the difference. With good preparation and analysis you can avoid costly and painful mistakes. Know Your Customer Research the area where your spa is located. What clients are you seeking? Will your…

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Skin Care Myths About Caffeine

This article was first published in print – Dermascope Magazine, August 2014 (© Dermascope 2014) Does drinking too much caffeine have a negative effect on the skin?  Rachelle Dupree has over 20 years of experience in marketing, media, and communications. She earned a bachelor’s degree in communication arts and marketing and a second degree in graphic design. She studied with a Denver-based herbalist and naturopath for four years, combining her marketingknowledge with her love of natural remedies. She currently contracts as a marketing and communications director for Vivoderm Natural Skincare and various design clients.  

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BENEFITS OF USING ZINC FOR SUN PROTECTION

This blog article was first published June, 2011 by LA Mom Magazine: (© 2011) Benefits of Using Zinc for Sun Protection By Rachelle Dupree If you spend any time in the sun, you might be familiar with an old sun protector called Zinc Oxide. Recognized widely in the 80’s on the noses of lifeguards and sun babies, zinc has come a long way since then.Micro-fine Zinc Oxide used in today’s skincare and sun protection are far improved from the old, thick, white predecessor. While this is a fairly new trend, many natural skincare fans may have already known about the benefits of Zinc in their skin care. Today’s zinc creams have been specially formulated to blend in almost invisibly and are barely noticeable. Because of this new micro-formulation, many natural skincare products have now introduced Zinc (also known as Zinc Oxide) into their product lines. Primarily, Zinc is known for its ability to protect skin from the sun. Damaging UV rays are your skin’s worst enemy. While experts advise a daily dose of sun for maximum health and Vitamin D absorption, once you go over the 10 to 15 minute mark, you are suddenly in “skin damage” territory. Even if you think you hardly ever get harmful sun exposure since you never “lie out in the sun” or purposefully go to “get a tan” you might be surprised just how quickly the sun can do its damage. One of the best ways to protect your skin against this every day exposure is to use a daily moisturizing cream that contains Zinc. While many products on the market are specifically sold to be a sun protectant, they may contain loads of other chemicals that are harmful for your skin to absorb every day. You want to try your best to avoid harmful parabens, toxic chemical formulations and other preservatives that have little to no value in an everyday facial moisturizer. Natural zinc moisturizers might also contain herbal ingredients that will help soothe and heal your skin. Look for formulations that contain Chamomile, Comfrey, Green Tea or Aloe vera – all excellent natural skin healers. The best way to ensure you are keeping your skincare regime healthy and natural is to read the labels. Always be aware of what you are putting on your skin. It is just as important as what you eat. Your skin absorbs every chemical you slather on to…

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About Me

Hello! Im a graphic designer, illustrator and writer with over 15 years experience in the marketing, advertising and media world. I love creating, designing and just generally making things beautiful. I can help you with everything from business cards to websites. If you like my designs, contact me and see what new creations we can make together!

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